[1] And it came to pass, when Jesus had finished all these sayings, he said unto his disciples, [2] Ye know that after two days is the feast of the passover, and the Son of man is betrayed to be crucified. [3] Then assembled together the chief priests, and the scribes, and the elders of the people, unto the palace of the high priest, who was called Caiaphas, [4] And consulted that they might take Jesus by subtlety, and kill him. [5] But they said, Not on the feast day, lest there be an uproar among the people.
Verse 1 Expanded Bible Comments
| And it came to pass, when Jesus had finished all these sayings, he said unto his disciples, | |
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| Question | Answer |
| "And it came to pass.." What does this phrase tell us? | That some period of time (short or long) has passed. |
| "When Jesus had finished all these sayings.." What are "these sayings?" | Those of Our Lord's Great Prophecy – Chapters 24 and 25. |
| To whom did Jesus address his remarks? | "Unto his disciples." |
Verse 2 Expanded Bible Comments
| Ye know that after two days is the feast of the passover, and the Son of man is betrayed to be crucified. | |
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| After two days was the feast of the passover, and of unleavened bread.. Mark 14:1 | |
| Now the feast of unleavened bread drew nigh, which is called the Passover. Luke 22:1 | |
| Question | Answer |
| Comparing the 3 accounts above, what was it that was coming after two days? | Matt – "the feast of the passover." Mark – "the feast of the passover, and of unleavened bread." Luke – "the feast of unleavened bread.. which is called the Passover." |
| Is this talking of "the Passover," or "the feast of unleavened bread," or both being on the same day? – "the feast of unleavened bread.. which is called the Passover." | Lev. 23:5-6; Num. 28:16-17 |
| When exactly is "after two days?" | Because in Matt. 26:2 Jesus added "and the Son of man is betrayed to be crucified," it becomes clear that the "two days off refers to the 14th of Nisan, as that is the day when Jesus was crucified. These words were spoken on the 12th of Nisan. |
Verses 3-4 Expanded Bible Comments
| Then assembled together the chief priests, and the scribes, and the elders of the people, unto the palace of the high priest, who was called Caiaphas, [4] And consulted that they might take Jesus by subtlety, and kill him. | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
| When (what day of the week) is "then?" | By comparing the Matthew, Mark and Luke accounts it becomes clear (from Luke 22:1-6) that this conspiracy was hatched after sunset, thus Wednesday night, beginning of Nisan 13. |
| Who were involved in this conspiracy? | The chief priests, the scribes, the elders, and Caiaphas the high priest. |
| What do these men all have in common? | They were the leaders in the Jewish community and every one of them had to know that this was against the Law of God. |
| What did these men plan to do? | "That they might take Jesus by subtlety, and kill him." |
Verse 5 Expanded Bible Comments
| But they said, Not on the feast day, lest there be an uproar among the people. | |
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| Question | Answer |
| "Not on the feast day." What "feast day?" | This had to be "the feast of unleavened bread." When we take into account the Passover was on the 14th of Nisan and was followed by the Feast of Unleavened Bread on the 15th, it is clear that the Jews were concerned with the 15th. (Lev. 23:5-6) Jesus was crucified on the 14th. They did not want our Lord's body to remain on the cross during the Sabbath day (Saturday) and that Sabbath was a "high Sabbath," i.e., it was also the feast of Unleavened bread. John 19:31 |
| What were they concerned about? | That if Jesus was crucified "on the feast day" the people would be in an uproar. |
| What did they appear NOT to be concerned about? | That they were committing Murder, directly violating the Law of God. |
[6] Now when Jesus was in Bethany, in the house of Simon the leper, [7] There came unto him a woman having an alabaster box of very precious ointment, and poured it on his head, as he sat at meat. [8] But when his disciples saw it, they had indignation, saying, To what purpose is this waste? [9] For this ointment might have been sold for much, and given to the poor. [10] When Jesus understood it, he said unto them, Why trouble ye the woman? for she hath wrought a good work upon me. [11] For ye have the poor always with you; but me ye have not always. [12] For in that she hath poured this ointment on my body, she did it for my burial. [13] Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached in the whole world, there shall also this, that this woman hath done, be told for a memorial of her.
Verses 6-7 Expanded Bible Comments
| Now when Jesus was in Bethany, in the house of Simon the leper, [7] There came unto him a woman having an alabaster box of very precious ointment, and poured it on his head, as he sat at meat. | |
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| Question | Answer |
| Is there any significance to the fact that Jesus was in the house of a leper? | The Jews associated leprosy with sin. For a religious Jew at that time to be seen in the company of lepers was quite unusual. This is yet another reminder to us that Jesus was indeed a friend of sinners. Matt. 11:19; Luke 7:34 |
| Do we know what woman did this? | Mary, the sister of Martha. John 12:2-3. |
| What did the woman have with her? |  |
| What was in the box? | "Very precious ointmen." |
| What did she do with it? | She poured it on Jesus' head "as he sat at meat." |
Verses 8-9 Expanded Bible Comments
| But when his disciples saw it, they had indignation, saying, To what purpose is this waste? [9] For this ointment might have been sold for much, and given to the poor. | |
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| Question | Answer |
| How did the disciples react when they saw this? | "They had indignation." |
| What was the basis of their reasoning? | That the ointment could have been sold and the profits used to help the poor, i.e., used in a "good work." The Lord's people are often told that they should be doing some "good work" rather than learning about the Truth and assisting the brethren in the developing the character-likeness of the Master. |
| Did all the disciples react the same way? | The Matthew and Luke accounts make no distinction between them, but John points out only Judas. No doubt Judas, for selfish reasons, was the instigator. Please see R2744 |
Verses 10-11 Expanded Bible Comments
| When Jesus understood it, he said unto them, Why trouble ye the woman? for she hath wrought a good work upon me. [11] For ye have the poor always with you; but me ye have not always. | |
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| Question | Answer |
| Why did the disciples "trouble the woman?" | Because Judas had convinced them that what she did was a great waste. |
| How did Jesus view her actions? | Jesus called it "a good work upon me." This is where we get a good lesson. |
| Before explaining about his burial, what lesson did Jesus give his disciples about "good works." | There is always some good work that could be done for the world, but that is not to be the focus of our lives. The work of helping mankind is the future work of the Kingdom. Our attention now should be upon the Lord's people. "Let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith." Gal. 6:10 |
Verses 12-13 Expanded Bible Comments
| For in that she hath poured this ointment on my body, she did it for my burial. [13] Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached in the whole world, there shall also this, that this woman hath done, be told for a memorial of her. | |
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| Question | Answer |
| What was the reason Mary poured this expensive ointment upon Jesus? | "She did it for my burial." Her motivation was her great love for Jesus. |
| Did Mary fully realize the significance of what she was doing? | Perhaps Mary was more attentive to our Lord's words about his eminent death and thus she may have suspected that this was indeed anointing his body for burial. If that be so or not, Mary had great love for the Master. Not only because he had brought her brother Lazurus from the dead but also she had sat at Jesus' feet and learned of Him. Luke 10:38-42 |
| Is it true that wherever the Gospel has gone, this deed of Mary's has also been told? | Yes it has. It is recorded in the books of Matthew (26:6-13), Mark (14:3-9) and John (12:2-8.) |
[14] Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went unto the chief priests, [15] And said unto them, What will ye give me, and I will deliver him unto you? And they covenanted with him for thirty pieces of silver. [16] And from that time he sought opportunity to betray him.
Versed 14-16 Expanded Bible Comments
| Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went unto the chief priests, [15] And said unto them, What will ye give me, and I will deliver him unto you? And they covenanted with him for thirty pieces of silver. [16] And from that time he sought opportunity to betray him. | |
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| Word/Phrase | Answer |
Verses 14-16 are all referenced from Expanded Bible Comments | |
| Then | No doubt reasoning that, since Jesus was about to die, he might as well sell the Lord and get what he could out of the transaction. R3878 |
| Judas Iscariot | The very one who had objected to Mary's act of love and devotion. R2744, R3878
Representing some who, for earthly advantage for themselves, are willing to deliver other members of the Lord's Body up to tribulation, adversity and reproach. R3366
Judas hailed from the south of Palestine, while the other eleven of Jesus' disciples were Galileans. R5552 It is inferred that, because of superior business qualities, Judas was made treasurer of the apostolic company. R5552 Critical of the Master and fault-finding. From his standpoint, Jesus was carrying on the campaign for the throne in an improper manner. R4487 Made acquainted with the heavenly gift and the powers of the age to come (Heb. 6:4,5) not by direct reception of the spirit, but by the indirect blessing which came upon the twelve through our Lord's special impartation to them. R4488; Q382:3, Q639:1 He had justification through faith; he had accepted the Lord as the Messiah. Q639:1 We find no reason for believing that Judas was a bad man at the time of his selection by Jesus to be one of the twelve apostles. R5552, R3887 |
| I will deliver him | It was not compulsion on Judas' part, not his duty. Q382:1 |
| Covenanted with him | It would appear from the Greek text and the Revised Version that Judas received the money for his work in advance. R2745 The murder of Jesus was plotted in advance. R5561 |
| Thirty pieces of silver | The price of a slave. "So they weighed for my price thirty pieces of silver." (Zech. 11:12) R2745 Those who teach for money that which they know is not the truth have the Judas spirit. R2779 Doubtless Judas reasoned that he could make the money out of the transaction without working any injury to the Lord. R4488 Which, on the basis of labor, amounted to between $200 and $300 in value. R5552 It was not merely the thirty pieces that influenced the ingrate. Rather, it was pride. He had thought to be associated with the Master in an earthly throne. R4708 No doubt others today, willing less directly to sell the Lord for earthly advantages or influence or money, find ways of excusing their perfidy. R2745 |
| To betray him | While the Master himself cannot be betrayed today for pieces of silver, "his brethren" can be thus dealt with. R4488 |
| "Mine Own Familiar Friend hath Lifted up his Heel Against Me" | R4906-R4908 |
[17] Now the first day of the feast of unleavened bread the disciples came to Jesus, saying unto him, Where wilt thou that we prepare for thee to eat the passover? [18] And he said, Go into the city to such a man, and say unto him, The Master saith, My time is at hand; I will keep the passover at thy house with my disciples. [19] And the disciples did as Jesus had appointed them; and they made ready the passover.
Verse 17 Expanded Bible Comments
| Now the first day of the feast of unleavened bread the disciples came to Jesus, saying unto him, Where wilt thou that we prepare for thee to eat the passover? | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| Question | Answer | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| When exactly is "the feast of unleavened bread?" Is it on the 14th or the 15th of Nisan (Abib)? | Lev. 23:5-6 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| How does this compare with.. | Exo. 12:12-18 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| What did the disciples ask of Jesus? | Where shall we prepare to eat the Passover. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Why is this important to us? | Because it was the Passover and not something that looked like the Passover but was actually something else. Additionally we recognize that Jesus' celebration of the Passover was a requirement under the law and that from the emblems associated with the Passover He created the Memorial of His death, which we celebrate on its anniversary. Compare Mark 14:12-16 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Strong's (Greek NT WH+)
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Verse 18 Expanded Bible Comments
| And he said, Go into the city to such a man, and say unto him, The Master saith, My time is at hand; I will keep the passover at thy house with my disciples. | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
| Jesus said "Go into the city.." Do we know who he sent? | Luke 22:8 |
| "To such a man.." What does that mean? | Compare Mark 14:13; Luke 22:10 |
| What would be the significance of "a man.. bearing a pitcher of water?" | In those days, that was considered "woman's work." We suggest that this part of the picture was specially arranged for the saints living at the end of the Gospel Age. The "man" bearing a pitcher of "water" pictures Pastor Russell bearing the truth (water), as opposed to a woman (a church) doing this. |
| "My time is at hand." Who among the close followers of Jesus really seemed to grasp the import of these words? | Mary (sister of Martha,) as indicated by her anointing of Jesus earlier. | "My time is at hand." Might there be another reason for Jesus uttering these words? | In Rev. 1:3 we are told that a special blessing is available only to those who have reached the point when "the time is at hand." Compare Rev. 22:10 |
| Was Jesus telling the truth when He instructed his disciples: "I will keep the Passover?" | Of course he was telling the truth. |
| Why even ask the above question? | Because there is a teaching among some Bible Students that this "last supper" was NOT a Passover meal. If it was NOT a Passover meal and Jesus said it was a Passover meal, then it would appear that he lied about it. According to the prophetic description of our Lord, "neither was any deceit in his mouth." Isa. 53:9 |
| Was Jesus being presumptous by stating that He and his disciples would share the Passover at this man's house, i.e., was He imposing upon the man? | R1800:14 |
Verse 19 Expanded Bible Comments
| And the disciples did as Jesus had appointed them; and they made ready the passover. | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
| Did the disciples do as Jesus instructed? | Yes. |
| What did the disciples do? | "They made ready the Passover." – Not an imitation of the Passover but the Passover. |
[20] Now when the evening was come, he sat down with the twelve. [21] And as they did eat, he said, Verily I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me. [22] And they were exceeding sorrowful, and began every one of them to say unto him, Lord, is it I? [23] And he answered and said, He that dippeth his hand with me in the dish, the same shall betray me. [24] The Son of man goeth as it is written of him: but woe unto that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! it had been good for that man if he had not been born. [25] Then Judas, which betrayed him, answered and said, Master, is it I? He said unto him, Thou hast said.
Verse 20 Expanded Bible Comments
| Now when the evening was come, he sat down with the twelve. | |
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| Question | Answer |
| What is the importance of "when the evening was come?" | Because it indicates that it was now the next day, i.e., it was now the fourteenth of Nisan (Jewish day beginning at sunset.) |
| Who were with Jesus at the meal? | The Twelve. If others of the company were also present (Mary, Martha..) we are not told. The important point was that it was the twelve. |
Verse 21 Expanded Bible Comments
| And as they did eat, he said, Verily I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me. | |
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| Question | Answer |
| What was the startling message that Jesus told His disciples? | "One of you shall betray me." |
| When did He tell them this? | "As they did eat?" |
Verse 22 Expanded Bible Comments
| And they were exceeding sorrowful, and began every one of them to say unto him, Lord, is it I? | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
| How did the disciples react when hearing that one of them would betray him? | "They were exceeding sorrowful." |
| What question did they ask of him? | "Is it I?" |
| Did Judas ask this question? | Yes. "Every one of them." |
Verses 23-24 Expanded Bible Comments
| And he answered and said, He that dippeth his hand with me in the dish, the same shall betray me. [24] The Son of man goeth as it is written of him: but woe unto that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! it had been good for that man if he had not been born. | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
| Did Jesus reveal to all who would betray him? | No. |
| Who dipped his hand in the dish with Jesus? | We are told it was Judas but it may also have been others. We are simply not informed. |
| "As it is written of him." Where is it so written? | Psa. 109:6-8 |
| How do we understand the words of Jesus from "woe" to the end of verse 24? | R1962 |
Verse 25 Expanded Bible Comments
| Then Judas, which betrayed him, answered and said, Master, is it I? He said unto him, Thou hast said. | |
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| Question | Answer |
| Why did Judas ask "is it I?" Was he challenging Jesus' knowledge? | To not ask might have made him stand out amongst the twelve and all of them would then know that he was the traitor. |
| What is the meaning of Jesus' words: "thou hast said." | Yes Judas. You are the traitor. |
[26] And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body. [27] And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; [28] For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. [29] But I say unto you, I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom.
Verse 26 Expanded Bible Comments
| And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body. | |
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| Question | Answer |
| "As they were eating.." What does this phrase tell us? | That they were still eating the Passover supper. |
| "Jesus took bread.. and said, Take, eat; this is my body." Luke 22:19 says: "This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me." What is the primary significance of the "bread?" | SM563 |
| What class of believers are invited to join in this primary significance of eating the bread? | In its primary sense, all believers. |
| What is the deeper significance of the bread? | It shows the church's participation in the Sin-Offering, having our earthly lives sacrificially crushed, as did our Lord. |
| What class of believers are invited to join in this deeper significance of eathing the bread? | The spirit begotten. |
Verses 27-28 Expanded Bible Comments
| And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; [28] For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. | |
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| Question | Answer |
| What followed the blessing and eating of the unleavened bread? | The blessing and drinking of the cup. |
| What is meant by "the new testament?" | The New Covenant (as opposed to the Old (Law) Covenant. |
| What is meant by "my blood of the new testament?" | Lev. 17:14 By saying "my blood," Jesus was indicating that his life was shed sacrificially in order to seal the New Covenant. |
| According to this verse, why was the blood of Jesus shed? | For the remission of sins of the many, i.e., of all the willing of mankind. |
| What is the primary significance of the cup? | It pictures Jesus' life being poured out in sacrifice. While this involves the Ransom, the focus here is his life being sacrificed during the 3½ years of his earthly ministry, i.e., the sin-offering. Isa. 53:10 |
| What is the deeper significance of the cup? | The grapes loose their individuality by being crushed to produce the juice. So the church looses her individuality to become part of the sin-offering. |
| What is meant by "Drink ye all of it?" | R3880 This is our Lord inviting the church to participate with Him in the sin-offering. |
Verse 29 Expanded Bible Comments
| But I say unto you, I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom. | |
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| Question | Answer |
| Why did Jesus say that he would not drink of the fruit of the vine until "my Father's kingdom?" Did He mean that there would be drinking in the Kingdom? | R3365 |
| He also said "that day when I drink.." Was He speaking of a particular day? And how long would be that day, 24 hours? | Yes He was. That "day" is the Millennial Day of 1,000 years, "the Day of the Lord." 2 Pet. 3:8 |
| What does it mean to "drink it new" in the kingdom? | R1695 |
Verse 30 Expanded Bible Comments
| And when they had sung an hymn, they went out into the mount of Olives. | |
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| Question | Answer |
| What did they do next? | Sang a hymn and went to the mount of Olives. |
[31] Then saith Jesus unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad. [32] But after I am risen again, I will go before you into Galilee. [33] Peter answered and said unto him, Though all men shall be offended because of thee, yet will I never be offended. [34] Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, That this night, before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. [35] Peter said unto him, Though I should die with thee, yet will I not deny thee. Likewise also said all the disciples.
Verse 31 Expanded Bible Comments
| Then saith Jesus unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad. | |
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| Question | Answer |
| "All ye shall be offended because of me.." What does this mean? | Various ways translated: kjv, jub, murdock, rv, webster, - offended because of me bbe - be turned away from me cev - reject me darby, rvic - offended in me drb - be scandalized in me emtv - made to stumble because of me erv - lose your faith in me esv, leb - fall away because of me gnb - run away and leave me gw - abandon me isv - turn against me roth - find cause of stumbling in me wnt - stumble and fail ylt, diag - be stumbled |
| "It is written.." Where is it written? | Zech. 13:7 |
| Does the quoted verse apply exclusively to Jesus? | The rest of the verse adds "and against the man that is my fellow," which likely applies to Br. Russell. |
| Who are the sheep and what happens to them? | John 10:14,27 The sheep are those faithful ones who follow our Lord. "The sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad." This happened when Jesus was taken and later crucified. It also happened after Br. Russell's death. |
Verse 32 Expanded Bible Comments
| But after I am risen again, I will go before you into Galilee. | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
| Did any of His disciples seem to notice His declaration here that He would rise from the dead? | No. |
Verse 33 Expanded Bible Comments
| Peter answered and said unto him, Though all men shall be offended because of thee, yet will I never be offended. | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
| What was Peter's reaction to our Lord's statement? | "Though all men shall be offended because of thee, yet will I never be offended." |
Verse 34 Expanded Bible Comments
| Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, That this night, before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
| Was Jesus being cruel to Peter by telling him that he would 3 times deny Jesus before morning? Please explain why Jesus said this? | No, he was not being cruel. There are at least two reasons for Jesus response. 1. To let Peter and the others know that Jesus could see what was going to happen in advance. 2. To show Peter, and to all his followers throughout the Gospel Age, that there are events in which our fallen flesh can be overwhelmed in spite of how determined we are to remain loyal. This also permitted Peter to have both greater humility and greater sympathy for others who may be caught up by the moment. |
Verse 35 Expanded Bible Comments
| Peter said unto him, Though I should die with thee, yet will I not deny thee. Likewise also said all the disciples. | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
| What was the degree of Peter's stated determination to stand with our Lord? | Even unto death. |
| How did the other disciples respond? | They were in complete determination with Peter's declaration. |
[36] Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called Gethsemane, and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder. [37] And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very heavy. [38] Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me. [39] And he went a little farther, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt. [40] And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour? [41] Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. [42] He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done. [43] And he came and found them asleep again: for their eyes were heavy. [44] And he left them, and went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words. [45] Then cometh he to his disciples, and saith unto them, Sleep on now, and take your rest: behold, the hour is at hand, and the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. [46] Rise, let us be going: behold, he is at hand that doth betray me.
Verse 36 Expanded Bible Comments
| Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called Gethsemane, and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder. | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
| "A place called Gethsemane." What kind of a place was this? | A garden. John 18:10,25-26 |
| Why did Jesus tell his disciples to remain in one place while he went to another place? | Jesus left them at the first place as sort of a guard. He separated himself so He could pray in private. |
Verse 37 Expanded Bible Comments
| And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very heavy. | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
| Why did Jesus take Peter with him? | Peter, always ready to jump into the fray, was the first one to declare "Though all men shall be offended because of thee, yet will I never be offended." |
| Why did Jesus take with him "the two sons of Zebedee?" | James and John. Primarily because of their zeal. Mark 3:17 |
| How did Jesus feel at that time? | "Sorrowful and very heavy." |
Verse 38 Expanded Bible Comments
| Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me. | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
| Why was Jesus "sorrowful, even unto death?" Isn't that the reason (to die) that He came to earth? | The entire weight of the Divine Plan rested on Him having done everything perfectly. Had he missed something? He was about to be crucified as a blasphemer, how could this be pleasing to the Father? – etc. |
| What did Jesus request of Peter, James and John? | "Tarry ye here, and watch with me." |
Verse 39 Expanded Bible Comments
| And he went a little farther, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt. | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
| Why did Jesus go "a little farther?" | To be completely alone for His prayer. |
| Why did He fall on his face? | He was showing extreme reverence for God. |
| What did Jesus mean by "Let this cup pass from me?" | See Expanded Bible Comments under "let this cup." |
| What did Jesus demand of His Father? | NOTHING! "Not as I will, but as thou wilt." |
Verse 40 Expanded Bible Comments
| And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour? | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
See also Mark 14:37-38 |
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| In what condition did Jesus find his disciples? | Asleep. |
| What did he say? | "Could you not watch with me one hour?" |
| Why did he single out Peter? | Because Peter was the one who earlier that night had said: "Though all men shall be offended because of thee, yet will I never be offended." |
Verse 41 Expanded Bible Comments
| Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
| Are we to "watch" or to "pray?" | Yes, we are to do both. To do one without the other will certainly lead us astray. |
| What is the purpose of following this instruction from the Lord? | "That ye enter not into temptation." |
| What is meant by "the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak?" | The new mind, new will desires to do right but the fallen flesh resists. |
Verse 42 Expanded Bible Comments
| He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done. | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
| How does this description differ from verse 39? | It does not. |
Verse 43 Expanded Bible Comments
| And he came and found them asleep again: for their eyes were heavy. | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
| (Speculation) How come "their eyes were heavy." | At "the Last Supper" they had very important information given to them by Jesus, namely that one of them would betray him. They had been a close-knit family for three years [Matt. 12:46-50.] The thought that any one of them would betray Jesus must have taken a great toll on them emotionally. |
Verses 44-46 Expanded Bible Comments
| And he left them, and went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words. [45] Then cometh he to his disciples, and saith unto them, Sleep on now, and take your rest: behold, the hour is at hand, and the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. [46] Rise, let us be going: behold, he is at hand that doth betray me. | |
|---|---|
| [vss 45-46] (ESV) Then he came to the disciples and said to them, "Sleep and take your rest later on. See, the hour is at hand, and the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. Rise, let us be going; see, my betrayer is at hand." (CEV) Finally, Jesus returned to his disciples and said, "Are you still sleeping and resting? The time has come for the Son of Man to be handed over to sinners. Get up! Let's go. The one who will betray me is already here." (ERV) Then Jesus went back to the followers and said, "Are you still sleeping and resting? The time has come for the Son of Man to be handed over to the control of sinful men. Stand up! We must go. Here comes the one who will hand me over." (LEB) Then he came to the disciples and said to them, "Are you still sleeping and resting? Behold, the hour is near, and the Son of Man is being betrayed into the hands of sinners. Get up, let us go! Behold, the one who is betraying me is approaching!" |
|
| Question | Answer |
| Was there anything different about this third time Jesus prayed? | No. "Saying the same words." |
| What did Jesus say about his disciples sleeping? | "Are you still sleeping?" |
| What does Jesus next say to his disciples? | "Get up, let us go! Behold, the one who is betraying me is approaching!" |
[47] And while he yet spake, lo, Judas, one of the twelve, came, and with him a great multitude with swords and staves, from the chief priests and elders of the people. [48] Now he that betrayed him gave them a sign, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he: hold him fast. [49] And forthwith he came to Jesus, and said, Hail, master; and kissed him. [50] And Jesus said unto him, Friend, wherefore art thou come? Then came they, and laid hands on Jesus, and took him. [51] And, behold, one of them which were with Jesus stretched out his hand, and drew his sword, and struck a servant of the high priest's, and smote off his ear. [52] Then said Jesus unto him, Put up again thy sword into his place: for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword. [53] Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels? [54] But how then shall the scriptures be fulfilled, that thus it must be? [55] In that same hour said Jesus to the multitudes, Are ye come out as against a thief with swords and staves for to take me? I sat daily with you teaching in the temple, and ye laid no hold on me. [56] But all this was done, that the scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled. Then all the disciples forsook him, and fled.
Verse 47 Expanded Bible Comments
| And while he yet spake, lo, Judas, one of the twelve, came, and with him a great multitude with swords and staves, from the chief priests and elders of the people. | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
| Why does it say "Judas, one of the twelve..?" | "Judas" is the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew "Judah." This leaves no doubt as to who it was that betrayed Jesus. |
| Who did Judas have with him? | "A great multitude with swords and staves." |
| From where did Judas come? | "From the chief priests and elders of the people." |
| What does this tell us about who was responsible for the betrayal and murder of Jesus? | While Judas was responsible ("it would have been good for that man if he had not been born,") yet the authorities also bore great responsibility ("How can you escape the judgment of Gehenna?" Matt. 23:33) |
Verses 48-49 Expanded Bible Comments
| Now he that betrayed him gave them a sign, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he: hold him fast. [49] And forthwith he came to Jesus, and said, Hail, master; and kissed him. | |
|---|---|
| Now Judas that betrayed Jesus gave the multitude with Judas a sign, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is Jesus: hold Jesus fast. [49] And forthwith Judas came to Jesus, and said, Hail, master; and kissed Jesus. | |
| Question | Answer |
| What was the sign of betrayal? | A kiss. |
| What was this sign to indicate to "the multitude?" | That the one receiving the kiss was to be taken. – "Hold him fast." |
| How did Judas address Jesus, and what does that indicate? | Judas referred to Jesus as "Master," indicating that Jesus was superior to Judas. |
Verse 50 Expanded Bible Comments
| And Jesus said unto him, Friend, wherefore art thou come? Then came they, and laid hands on Jesus, and took him. | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
| How did Jesus refer to Judas? | He called him "friend?" |
| What is the import of this? | Psa. 41:9 |
| Did Jesus know what was about to happen? | John 18:4 |
| If Jesus knew what Judas was up to, why did he ask him "Wherefore art thou come?" | Jesus may have been giving Judas one last chance to repent. Clearly he knew for what purpose Judas and his band had come. |
| What happened next? | "Then came they, and laid hands on Jesus, and took him." |
Verse 51 Expanded Bible Comments
| And, behold, one of them which were with Jesus stretched out his hand, and drew his sword, and struck a servant of the high priest's, and smote off his ear. | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
| Did any of the disciples attempt to defend Jesus? If so, which of them and what did they do? | John 18:10 |
| What did Jesus do in response to this action? | Luke 22:50-51 |
Verse 52 Expanded Bible Comments
| Then said Jesus unto him, Put up again thy sword into his place: for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword. | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
| What did Jesus tell Peter to do with his sword? | "Put up thy sword into the sheath." John 18:11 |
| What reason did Jesus give to Peter for him to do this? | "For all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword." |
| What lesson should we take from our Lord's instruction to Peter. | To remove from our hearts all thoughts of violence. It is an important attitude for us to have.
A lesson here for conscience objectors. If we are not to take up arms to defend Jesus himself (who is more important than even our own earthly family) how could we justify taking up arms against others? Matt. 12:50 |
Verses 53-54 Expanded Bible Comments
| Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels? [54] But how then shall the scriptures be fulfilled, that thus it must be? | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
| What is it that Jesus said His Father would do for Him if he asked? | Send more than 12 legions of angels. |
| How large is a legion? | While we might not be positive, a typical Roman legion was about 5,000 men. Thus twelve legions would be about 60,000 angels. |
| Do we have any examples of the power of one angel of the LORD? | Isa. 37:36 |
| Why was it that Jesus did not ask His Father for this kind of help? | "How then shall the scriptures be fulfilled, that thus it must be?" |
Verse 55 Expanded Bible Comments
| In that same hour said Jesus to the multitudes, Are ye come out as against a thief with swords and staves for to take me? I sat daily with you teaching in the temple, and ye laid no hold on me. | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
| Who else was with the multitudes? | Luke 22:52 |
| What question did Jesus ask of the multitudes? | "Are ye come out as against a thief with swords and staves for to take me?" |
| Why did Jesus make the point to them that none of them so much as laid a hand on him when he was daily teaching in the temple? | Jesus was pointing out their cowardice. The people listened eagerly to him. But now the religious leaders had formed a mob to take him at a time when the common people were not around for their cowardly act to be seen. The Luke account adds "but this is your hour, and the power of darkness." Luke 22:53 |
Verse 56 Expanded Bible Comments
| But all this was done, that the scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled. Then all the disciples forsook him, and fled. | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
| Why did all this happen? | "That the scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled." |
| What happened next? | "Then all the disciples forsook him, and fled." |
[57] And they that had laid hold on Jesus led him away to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders were assembled. [58] But Peter followed him afar off unto the high priest's palace, and went in, and sat with the servants, to see the end. [59] Now the chief priests, and elders, and all the council, sought false witness against Jesus, to put him to death; [60] But found none: yea, though many false witnesses came, yet found they none. At the last came two false witnesses, [61] And said, This fellow said, I am able to destroy the temple of God, and to build it in three days. [62] And the high priest arose, and said unto him, Answerest thou nothing? what is it which these witness against thee? [63] But Jesus held his peace. And the high priest answered and said unto him, I adjure thee by the living God, that thou tell us whether thou be the Christ, the Son of God. [64] Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said: nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven. [65] Then the high priest rent his clothes, saying, He hath spoken blasphemy; what further need have we of witnesses? behold, now ye have heard his blasphemy. [66] What think ye? They answered and said, He is guilty of death. [67] Then did they spit in his face, and buffeted him; and others smote him with the palms of their hands, [68] Saying, Prophesy unto us, thou Christ, Who is he that smote thee?
Verse 57 Expanded Bible Comments
| And they that had laid hold on Jesus led him away to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders were assembled. | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
| What did they next do to Jesus? | They led him "to Caiaphas the high priest." |
| Who else was assembled there? | The scribes and the elders. |
| How many of the common people were there? | None. |
Verse 58 Expanded Bible Comments
| But Peter followed him afar off unto the high priest's palace, and went in, and sat with the servants, to see the end. | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
| Where did Peter go? | To the high priests palace where they took Jesus. |
| Once there, what did Peter do and why? | He "went in, and sat with the servants, to see the end." |
| Was this meeting done according to Jewish Law, and was Peter being a coward by keeping a low profile? | R4711:3-4 |
Verse 59 Expanded Bible Comments
| Now the chief priests, and elders, and all the council, sought false witness against Jesus, to put him to death; | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
| Is it proper for anyone to hold a "trial" where they seek only to find witnesses to support their pre-determined outcome while denying the other side to bring in their witnesses? | No. |
| For what purpose did "the chief priests, and elders, and all the council" conduct this meeting? | To find any false witness which would say something that they could use to "justify" their pre-determined outcome, i.e., "to put him to death." |
Verses 60-61 Expanded Bible Comments
| But found none: yea, though many false witnesses came, yet found they none. At the last came two false witnesses, [61] And said, This fellow said, I am able to destroy the temple of God, and to build it in three days. | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
| In this verse we are told that there were many false witnesses, and yet they found none. How can this be? | The religious leaders were trying to find witnesses who had an element of truth in their false statements. The Devil knows that the best lies need to contain some element of truth, believability. The lie was "thou shalt not surely die," which lie is still taught by the churches today under the doctrine of immortality of the soul. The truth mingled with the lie was "your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil." Gen. 3:4-5 |
| What did the two false witnesses say? | They claimed that Jesus said (1) he was able to destroy the temple, and (2) and build it in three days. |
| What, if anything, was wrong with what the witnesses claimed? | Jesus did NOT say "I will destroy this temple.." He said "(you) Destroy this temple and I will build it.." – Jesus never said that He would destroy the temple. |
| Why are we told these two witnesses were found "at the last?" | Because they were not looking for the truth, instead they were looking for anything they could find with which to accuse him. Once they found what they were looking for (even though it was false) they stopped looking. |
Verses 62-63 Expanded Bible Comments
| And the high priest arose, and said unto him, Answerest thou nothing? what is it which these witness against thee? [63] But Jesus held his peace. And the high priest answered and said unto him, I adjure thee by the living God, that thou tell us whether thou be the Christ, the Son of God. | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
| Why did the high priest ask Jesus why he remained silent? | Because any normal man would defend himself against an accusation, especially a false one. |
| What did Jesus say? | "Jesus held his peace." Isa. 53:7 |
| What did the high priest's final question reveal about what the Jews believed? | That the Christ (Messiah) was indeed "the Son of God." |
| What did Caiaphas mean when he said "I adjure thee?" | I place you under oath. |
| What was his final question to Jesus? | "Are you the Christ, the Son of God?" |
Verse 64 Expanded Bible Comments
| Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said: nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven. | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
| What did Jesus mean by "Thou hast said?" | You are the one that said it. – That I am the Christ. |
| What did Jesus mean by "Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven?" | Not that those at this sham trial would see him with their natural eyes, but – R2781:4 |
Verses 65-66 Expanded Bible Comments
| Then the high priest rent his clothes, saying, He hath spoken blasphemy; what further need have we of witnesses? behold, now ye have heard his blasphemy. [66] What think ye? They answered and said, He is guilty of death. | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
| What is indicated by the high priest rending his clothes? | It meant mourning. The high priest was feigning outrage. |
| What did the high priest then accuse Jesus of? | Blasphemy. |
| What did the others involved in this "trial" say? | "He is guilty of death." |
Verses 67-68 Expanded Bible Comments
| Then did they spit in his face, and buffeted him; and others smote him with the palms of their hands, [68] Saying, Prophesy unto us, thou Christ, Who is he that smote thee? | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
| What did the mob do next? | Spit in his face, smote him and then (mocking) said "Prophesy unto us, thou Christ, Who is he that smote thee?" |
[69] Now Peter sat without in the palace: and a damsel came unto him, saying, Thou also wast with Jesus of Galilee. [70] But he denied before them all, saying, I know not what thou sayest. [71] And when he was gone out into the porch, another maid saw him, and said unto them that were there, This fellow was also with Jesus of Nazareth. [72] And again he denied with an oath, I do not know the man. [73] And after a while came unto him they that stood by, and said to Peter, Surely thou also art one of them; for thy speech bewrayeth thee. [74] Then began he to curse and to swear, saying, I know not the man. And immediately the cock crew. [75] And Peter remembered the word of Jesus, which said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. And he went out, and wept bitterly.
Verses 69-70 Expanded Bible Comments
| Now Peter sat without in the palace: and a damsel came unto him, saying, Thou also wast with Jesus of Galilee. [70] But he denied before them all, saying, I know not what thou sayest. | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
| Where was Peter during the mock trial of Jesus? | He was in the palace courtyard. |
| What did the servant girl say to Peter? | You were with Jesus. |
| How did Peter react to this? | He denied it. |
Verses 71-72 Expanded Bible Comments
| And when he was gone out into the porch, another maid saw him, and said unto them that were there, This fellow was also with Jesus of Nazareth. [72] And again he denied with an oath, I do not know the man. | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
| Did Peter stay where he was in the courtyard? | He moved to the porch. |
| Another spoke. What did they say? | That Peter had been with Jesus. |
| How did Peter respond to this? | He denied it – with an oath. |
Verses 73-74 Expanded Bible Comments
| And after a while came unto him they that stood by, and said to Peter, Surely thou also art one of them; for thy speech bewrayeth thee. [74] Then began he to curse and to swear, saying, I know not the man. And immediately the cock crew. | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
| What happened just a little later? | Some of the bystanders said that Peter definately was with Jesus. |
| What reason did they give to support their claim? | That Peter's speech gave him away. |
| What lesson does this teach us about our own conduct? | That others will likely take note of our speech and behaviour and thus recognize that we too have been with Jesus. |
| How did Peter respond this time? | Not only did he deny knowing Jesus but "he began to curse and to swear." |
| What happened next? | "Immediately the cock crew." |
Verse 75 Expanded Bible Comments
| And Peter remembered the word of Jesus, which said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. And he went out, and wept bitterly. | |
|---|---|
| Question | Answer |
| What happened next? | Peter remembered what Jesus said about denying him and the cock crowing. "He went out, and wept bitterly." |